noun
recognizance
rih-KAHG-nuh-zuhns/rɪˈkɑɡnəzəns/
A formal legal promise to appear in court or meet specified conditions.
The defendant signs a recognizance before the judge.
Etymology
An acknowledgment became a legal bond admitting that an obligation was binding. In release on one's own recognizance, that obligation is expressed in a signed promise to appear in court when required.
In context
We're like, "Oh, this is awesome." - [Narrator] Elmer Nash is released on his own recognizance as he awaits sentencing.
More examples
- The order set out the conditions of recognizance.
- She signed a recognizance promising to return to court.
- The court record noted a breach of recognizance.
Forms
recognizance
Similar words
- bail
- Bail can involve money or security; recognizance is a formal promise to meet court conditions.